University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee names new police chief

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee hired Joseph LeMire as the university's new police chief, effective July 13.

LeMire has served as police chief at UW-Oshkosh since 2010. In that role, he helped develop one of the largest student security programs in the University of Wisconsin System and worked with the district attorney's office to create a UW-Oshkosh Safety Zone to protect students in areas adjacent to the campus.

UWM's police chief manages and oversees University Police, ensuring that essential law enforcement, security and emergency services operate effectively and efficiently. The chief also advises the campus on strategies to prevent crime and enhance safety and security. The chief is responsible for establishing positive working relationships with members of the university community, visitors and neighbors and other law enforcement agencies throughout the region and UW System.

LeMire also worked with UW-Oshkosh's Student Affairs department to develop policing strategy and initiatives to benefit students, with his department adopting the theme “Building Relationships, Protecting Community.” He has received awards for his work with the university's Women's Center, LGBTQ Resource Center and residence halls.

LeMire completed his master's degree in public administration at UW-Oshkosh in May.

As chief of University Police for UWM, he will report to Robin Van Harpen, the vice chancellor for finance and administrative affairs.

“I am grateful that the search committee identified such strong candidates, and I am very happy Joe will be joining us at UWM,” Van Harpen said. “He is ready and excited to join a larger university police department and a campus in a very urban environment where the safety of our students and campus community is so vital to the well-being of the university. Also, he is eager to bring his close working relationships with student services functions to UWM.”

LeMire succeeds Michael Marzion as permanent chief. Van Harpen thanked Assistant Chief Greg Habeck for serving as the interim police chief this past year.

“I cannot thank Greg enough for his excellent service to the campus to date, especially during the interim period. I look forward to his continuing in a strong leadership role on behalf of the police department in the future,” Van Harpen said.

She also expressed appreciation for the time and thoughtful work of the search committee, chaired by Steven Brandl, a criminal justice professor in UWM's Helen Bader School of Social Welfare.